Many Christians strive for faithfulness but struggle repeatedly with one particular sin. The specific sin, of course, varies from person to person.
If you find one temptation to be much stronger than others, you aren’t the only one! But sin is still sin, and you must work to keep it from controlling you.
Here are a few things that can help you in your battle:
1. Know Your Weakness
Be honest with yourself and admit you have a weak spot. Don’t deny it. Don’t ignore it. Our weaknesses already make us prone to temptation (read James 1:14). If you pretend you’re invincible you won’t protect yourself. You’ll expose yourself to more temptations.
2. Avoid Stumbling Blocks
Paul warned about putting stumbling blocks in somebody else’s way (Romans 14:13, 1 Corinthians 8:9). Why not apply the same principle to yourself?
Are there certain things that “set you up” for temptation? Figure them out and work around them. For example: I know a brother who had a drinking problem. He’s been sober many years, but he deliberately avoids alcohol aisles in grocery stores. He has learned to keep his guard up and avoid situations that could obviously and easily lead to temptation.
3. Fight Smart
As you get better at avoiding things that trigger temptation you’ll have fewer challenges. Yet, temptation will still happen and it’s important to really fight back! “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7; NKJV) 1 Corinthians 10:13 is a great verse to memorize. It will remind you everybody gets tempted, temptation can be resisted, and God provides a way out. Look for that way out, and take it when you find it!
Test these three tips and see if they don’t help you find strength against your struggles.